Cheboygan Schools seeks $22M for elementary school, infrastructure upgrades

CHEBOYGAN — The Cheboygan Area School District is seeking $22 million for a renovation of its elementary school and facility upgrades throughout other buildings.

Superintendent Spencer Byrd says that about half of that funding would go towards modernizing East Elementary, replacing building infrastructure including the HVAC system, boiler and roof.

The funding would also support the construction of a new special education learning space, improve the building’s safety with a secure entryway and help the district increase its pre-K offerings.

“We’re going to have to renovate some space, add some classrooms because we feel it’s very important to bring back our pre-K program,” he said.

The other half would go towards smaller upgrades in the middle and high school buildings, including restroom renovations, HVAC improvements and a new elevator to expand gym access.

“We want our students to want to come to school,” he said. “And when they get to school we want them to have all the modern technologies and all of the things that any other school district has, and the best way to do that is through the issuance of this bond.”

The proposal would not increase tax rates since it would replace an expiring millage.

Voters will have the chance to weigh in on the proposal with the Aug. 6 primary election. Byrd encouraged voters to attend an open house at East Elementary on Aug. 1.

You can find your local millage proposals and candidates on our website, or see your sample ballot and other information from the Secretary of State here.

RELATED: ‘I Voted’ sticker contest features local Michigan student artwork